Classroom Accommodations
8 min read
The right accommodations can transform school from a daily minefield into a place where students with RSD can learn and thrive. These practical adjustments require minimal effort but have significant impact.
Feedback and Assessment
How Feedback Is Delivered
Testing and Grading
Feedback Phrases That Help
Instead of:
- "This is wrong"
- "You need to try harder"
- "I expected better from you"
- "Why didn't you..."
Try:
- "Let's look at this together"
- "Here's a strategy that might help"
- "You're on the right track"
- "What if you tried..."
Classroom Participation
Being Called On
- Advance warning - "I'll ask you next"
- Think-pair-share - Test ideas with a partner first
- Written responses - Option to write rather than speak
- Pass option - A no-shame way to decline
- Preview questions - Give before class to prepare
Presentations & Public Speaking
- Alternative formats - Recorded, small groups, or one-on-one
- Scaffolded exposure - Start small and build
- Supportive audience - Ensure classmates are encouraging
- No surprise presentations - Plenty of prep time
The Power of Warning
Simply warning a student before calling on them can reduce RSD reactions by up to 80%. The anxiety isn't about answering - it's about being caught off guard. A quick "Maria, I'll ask you about this in a moment" changes everything.
Social and Group Work
Group Projects
- Assigned groups - Don't let students choose
- Clear roles - Defined responsibilities reduce conflict
- Teacher-facilitated pairing - Match with supportive peers
- Individual assessment options - When dynamics are difficult
Peer Interactions
- Support during unstructured time
- Social skills coaching
- Buddy systems - Paired with understanding peer
- Quick conflict mediation
The Break Signal
Establish a private signal system with the student:
This prevents public meltdowns by allowing early intervention.
Environment and Routine
Physical Environment
- Seating position - Away from distractions
- Exit access - Easy ability to leave when needed
- Calm space - Designated quiet area
- Reduced visual noise - Less competitive comparison
Predictability
- Consistent routines - Predictable class structure
- Advance notice - Substitute teachers, schedule changes
- Clear expectations - Explicit rules and procedures
- Visual schedules - Knowing what's coming
Academic Support
Work Completion
- Chunked assignments - Break large tasks down
- Flexible deadlines - When RSD caused delays
- Check-in points - Prevent panic at final deadline
- Re-do opportunities - Without penalty for first attempts
Executive Function Support
- Written instructions - Not just verbal
- Step-by-step guidance - Clear, sequential directions
- Transition warnings - "Five minutes until we change"
- Organization support - Help with materials and planning
Implementing Accommodations
Start with These Three
If you're new to RSD accommodations:
The Goal
These accommodations aren't about lowering expectations. They're about removing barriers so students can show what they're capable of. A student who can't handle public criticism isn't less capable - they just need a different delivery method. The learning and standards remain the same.